Study data shows Victoza works better than competitor

ORLANDO, Fla. A recently approved drug for Type 2 diabetes made by Novo Nordisk worked better than a competitor made by Merck, according to results of a study presented at a recent scientific meeting.

Novo Nordisk said that Victoza (liraglutide [rDNA origin]) combined with metformin provided greater reductions in hemoglobal A1c, body weight and fasting plasma glucose than Merck’s Januvia (sitagliptin) plus metformin after a year. The Danish drug maker presented the results at the 70th annual Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association in Orlando, Fla.

According to the study, patients taking Victoza experienced reductions in hemoglobin A1c ranging from 1.3% to 1.5%, depending on dosage, compared with 0.9% for Januvia. Those taking Victoza lost an average of 6.16 to 8.14 pounds, compared with 2.64 pounds among those taking Januvia. After a half-year open-label study, 497 patients were enrolled for a half-year extension study.